TLC Focuses on AWOL Mormons for 2 New Reality Series

TLC is applying its “Breaking Amish” formula two new series focusing on the secretive world of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS).

The cable network has given six-episode series orders to two reality series, “Breaking the Faith” and “Escaping the Prophet,” that feature ex-FLDS church members. “Breaking the Faith,” which premieres Nov. 24, follows several young men and women who escape the community to start new lives. “Escaping the Prophet,” which is set for a December debut, focuses on former FLDS member Flora Jessup’s activities to helps families flee the compound.

“TLC is opening the door on a historically secretive community, infamous for everything from their criminal leader to their distinctive prairie dresses and hairstyles,” said TLC’s general manager, Nancy Daniels. “Through the brave actions of the participants across both series, we will witness the eye opening reality of what day to day life is like within these communities, and what it takes to break away from the compounds and try to establish a new future on the outside.”

A sneak peek preview of “Breaking the Faith” will air during Sunday’s season finale of “Breaking Amish: LA.” at 9/8c.

The FLDS and its appointed prophet, Warren Jeffs, has been mired in controversy for years. In 2011, Jeffs was convicted on two felony counts of child sexual assault. There’s an estimated 10,000 followers of the FLDS church.